The Scoop's founders, Alfonso and Lawson, first met when Lawson's family moved in next door to Alfonso's in 2004. Over the years, while working in very different industries, the two would talk often of ways to invest in the community they loved. Lawson had a dream of creating an ice cream social-enterprise, a vision born on the front porches of her neighbors. From long sits on Alfonso's porch, the two would discuss the good and the bad changes in the neighborhood, the need for good jobs for young men and women too often "working" in the streets, and the need for real inter-dependence among different types of people. While sitting on another neighbor's porch, Lawson listened to Mama Blount's description of High's Ice Cream. They both lamented the lack of a neighborhood ice cream spot and Mama Blount shared all her favorite memories of eating Butter Brickle and enjoying time with neighbors in the thriving 1950's of Church Hill. So when Lawson left her post as Blue Sky Fund's Executive Director, she asked Alfonso to go into business with her, and he excitedly agreed. With a commitment to history, community, and opportunity, The Neighborhood Scoop was born in 2017!

Our Values

Our mission is to provide a gathering place for all to experience the joy of ice cream and the connection of community.

We hire local young people needing opportunity.

In a rapidly changing neighborhood, we want to be a business that remains accessible, affordable, and welcoming to all.

Our Staff

Alfonso Clarke, Manager- Al grew up in Fairfield Court and now lives in Church Hill with his amazing wife, Terry. When he is not at the Scoop, he enjoys looking after his grandkids, landscaping, and relaxing.

Lawson Wijesooriya, Manager- Lawson moved to Church Hill in 2004 and now lives here with her wonderful husband, Romesh, two kids, and always a household full of people. When she is not at the Scoop, she enjoys being active outside, traveling, volunteering at Chimborazo Elementary School, and hanging out with friends.

Lorin Johnson, Shift Manager- Lorin got connected to the Scoop through a mentor from Anna Julia Cooper School and both the Scoop and Lorin knew it would be a great fit for her to work as a shift manager while she is home from Randolph Macon College. She grew up in Whitcomb Court and is passionate about her community. She says, "I am always ready to scoop ice cream and meet others who live in Church Hill."

Ayanna Gill, Scooper- Ayanna joined the team in the spring of 2018 with lots of creativity and energy for great food and great service. She attends Church Hill Academy, loves cooking, and says, "here at The Scoop, I am happy to work in a place where I can serve ice cream and enjoy my community. I come excited to work every day!"

Jarius Smith, Scooper- The Scoop is Jarius' first official job, and he is eager to learn and serve every day. He attends Church Hill Academy, was raised on the Northside of Richmond, and moved to Church Hill at age 13. He says, "I enjoy serving the community and making people's day."